Day trips from Kansas City, MO

From Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri, is a vibrant hub with a rich cultural scene, but the surrounding region offers a wealth of day trip opportunities that cater to diverse interests. From the scenic beauty of state parks and mountains to the charm of historic towns and the thrill of adventure sports, there's something for everyone within a 175-mile radius. Whether you're looking to explore nature, indulge in local cuisine, or immerse yourself in history, these day trips from Kansas City promise unforgettable experiences.

1. Branson, Missouri

📍 130 miles from Kansas City⏱️ Full day

Branson is a popular destination known for its live entertainment, beautiful lakes, and outdoor activities. Visit the Titanic Museum, take a ride on the Runaway Mountain Coaster, or enjoy a show at one of the many theaters. For nature lovers, Table Rock Lake offers boating, fishing, and scenic views.

What to See & Do:

  • Titanic Museum
  • Runaway Mountain Coaster
  • Table Rock Lake
  • Branson Landing

2. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

📍 110 miles from Kansas City⏱️ Full day

Lake of the Ozarks is a premier destination for water sports, fishing, and relaxation. Rent a tritoon boat or jet ski from Buddy's Harbor, explore the scenic drives, or visit the historic Bagnell Dam. The area is also home to several wineries and craft breweries, making it a great spot for food and drink enthusiasts.

What to See & Do:

  • Buddy's Harbor Boat Rentals
  • Bagnell Dam
  • Scenic Drives
  • Wineries and Breweries

3. Jefferson City, Missouri

📍 100 miles from Kansas City⏱️ Full day

Jefferson City, the state capital, offers a blend of history and natural beauty. Visit the Missouri State Capitol, explore the historic Missouri State Penitentiary, or take a ghost hunt tour. The nearby Katy Trail provides excellent opportunities for hiking and biking.

What to See & Do:

  • Missouri State Capitol
  • Missouri State Penitentiary
  • Katy Trail
  • 3-Hour Ghost Hunt

4. St. Joseph, Missouri

📍 50 miles from Kansas City⏱️ Half day

St. Joseph is a historic town with a rich past, including its role in the Pony Express. Visit the Pony Express Museum, explore the Jesse James Home Museum, or stroll through the beautiful Rosecrans Memorial Park. The town also offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries to fine dining.

What to See & Do:

  • Pony Express Museum
  • Jesse James Home Museum
  • Rosecrans Memorial Park
  • Historic Downtown

5. Weston, Missouri

📍 35 miles from Kansas City⏱️ Half day

Weston is a charming small town known for its historic district and culinary scene. Visit the Weston Bend State Park for hiking and scenic views, or explore the town's many wineries and breweries. The historic downtown area is filled with unique shops and restaurants, making it a great spot for a leisurely day trip.

What to See & Do:

  • Weston Bend State Park
  • Historic Downtown
  • Wineries and Breweries
  • Unique Shops and Restaurants

6. Cameron, Missouri

📍 70 miles from Kansas City⏱️ Half day

Cameron is a small town with a big heart, offering a variety of outdoor activities and historic sites. Visit the Katy Trail for hiking and biking, or explore the nearby Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge for wildlife viewing. The town also has several parks and recreational areas, making it a great spot for a family-friendly day trip.

What to See & Do:

  • Katy Trail
  • Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge
  • Historic Sites
  • Parks and Recreation

7. Kansas City, Kansas

📍 15 miles from Kansas City⏱️ 2-3 hours

Just across the state line, Kansas City, Kansas, offers a unique blend of history and culture. Visit the Kansas Speedway for a thrilling race experience, or explore the historic Garmin Museum. The town also has several parks and recreational areas, making it a great spot for a family-friendly day trip.

What to See & Do:

  • Kansas Speedway
  • Garmin Museum
  • Historic Sites
  • Parks and Recreation

8. Lawrence, Kansas

📍 40 miles from Kansas City⏱️ Half day

Lawrence is a vibrant college town with a rich history and cultural scene. Visit the University of Kansas, explore the historic downtown area, or stroll through the beautiful Kansas University Natural History Museum. The town also has several parks and recreational areas, making it a great spot for a family-friendly day trip.

What to See & Do:

  • University of Kansas
  • Historic Downtown
  • Kansas University Natural History Museum
  • Parks and Recreation

9. Topeka, Kansas

📍 60 miles from Kansas City⏱️ Half day

Topeka, the state capital of Kansas, offers a blend of history and natural beauty. Visit the Kansas State Capitol, explore the historic Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, or take a stroll through the beautiful Washburn University campus. The town also has several parks and recreational areas, making it a great spot for a family-friendly day trip.

What to See & Do:

  • Kansas State Capitol
  • Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site
  • Washburn University
  • Parks and Recreation

10. Independence, Missouri

📍 20 miles from Kansas City⏱️ 2-3 hours

Independence is a historic town with a rich past, including its role in the early days of the United States. Visit the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, explore the historic downtown area, or stroll through the beautiful Independence Square. The town also has several parks and recreational areas, making it a great spot for a family-friendly day trip.

What to See & Do:

  • Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum
  • Historic Downtown
  • Independence Square
  • Parks and Recreation

11. Leavenworth, Kansas

📍 50 miles from Kansas City⏱️ Half day

Leavenworth is a historic town with a rich past, including its role in the early days of the United States. Visit the Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery, explore the historic downtown area, or stroll through the beautiful Leavenworth County Historical Society Museum. The town also has several parks and recreational areas, making it a great spot for a family-friendly day trip.

What to See & Do:

  • Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery
  • Historic Downtown
  • Leavenworth County Historical Society Museum
  • Parks and Recreation

12. St. Charles, Missouri

📍 20 miles from Kansas City⏱️ 2-3 hours

St. Charles is a historic town with a rich past, including its role in the early days of the United States. Visit the Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center, explore the historic downtown area, or stroll through the beautiful Weldon Spring Conservation Area. The town also has several parks and recreational areas, making it a great spot for a family-friendly day trip.

What to See & Do:

  • Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center
  • Historic Downtown
  • Weldon Spring Conservation Area
  • Parks and Recreation

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